"Okay," said Stud disappointedly.

Seeing the disappointed look on his face, Carolyn changed her mind.

"Okay, said Carolyn. I'll make the egg plant for lunch".

"Thanks Mom, said Stud with a grin. I knew I could get you to change your mind".

Guilt had always caused Carolyn to be over indulgent with her only son. She was widow with six daughters when she met Milton Killarny.

Shortly after their marriage, Carolyn gave birth to their only child and her only son. Milton proved to be an abusive husband and father.

It was fortunate for Terrance that Milton died when he was thirteen.

Carolyn, after putting the first load of clothes into the washer, began preparing the egg plant parm.

"Mom, called Stud from the living room where he and Kiki were playing video games. Can you bring Kiki and I some milk and cookies"?

"After lunch," replied Carolyn slicing the egg plant.

"But I'm hungry," complained Stud.'"

Then you'll eat your lunch", replied Carolyn as she dredged slices of egg plant through egg yolks and bread crumbs.

"Can we have some ice cream then"? asked Kiki.

"Terrance Michael! scolded Carolyn. See what a bad influence you are on your niece! She knows that you don't eat dessert before you have your meal."

Kiki took her uncle's hand in hers.

"Don't worry, Uncle Terrance, said Kiki. You didn't teach me anything bad. I all ready knew how to be bad."